Thousands on their marks for fun run

The event attracted approximately 6,000 runners, many of whom raised thousands of pounds for a variety of worthwhile causes including the Mayor’s charity Stepping Stones.

Under the sizzling summer sun all the participants, from elite athletes to walkers and joggers, competed to achieve their personal goals.

The men’s winner of the Half Marathon was Paul Pollock (finishing time of 01:07:59) with Brian McMahon coming second and Brendan Teer finishing third. The winner of the women’s Half Marathon was Donna Evans (finishing time of 01:24:53) with Julie Balmer coming second and Roisin Hughes finishing third. In the wheelchair race it was a dead heat with Paul Hanna and Jim Corbett lifting the prize.

Turning to the 10k, the men’s race was won by Paddy Hamilton and the female race was won by Rachel Pearson.

A highlight of the evening was the Community 3K Fun Run which attracted thousands of runners many in various types of fancy dress that added greatly to the feel-good factor of the evening. Jordan Hutchings was first across the Fun Run finishing line with Anna Welsh the First Female Finisher.

Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee, Councillor Thomas Beckett, said: “This year’s Half Marathon event was another great sporting success for the city. Well done to everyone who took part and everyone who supported the event. The success of this event further enhances Lisburn’s profile as the European City of Sport.”

Before the event started Mayor, Alderman William Leathem, addressed the crowd: “It is brilliant to see so many people here tonight for the Lisburn Half Marathon event and raising funds for very worthwhile charities.”